Fleewinter

Set on the southern shore of Sri Lanka, the villas at Talaramba Reef offer the perfect beach getaway. Large and spacious, with wide verandas and open living areas, they each have their own private pool and are fully staffed.

Each has four large and air conditioned double bedrooms with four poster beds and en-suite bathrooms. They feature French windows which open onto wide balconies, and up to two single beds can be added to each room for children.

Both villas are suitable for people of all ages. However, Villa Vatura has a separate TV room and a very shallow section in its swimming pool, making it an ideal option for families while Villa Sulanga has a bar area in the living room and a deeper swimming pool, so is slightly more adult friendly.

Meals are served on the veranda overlooking the garden and there is also a comfortable lounge area inside. The exotic garden features many local tree species, including coconut palms, cashews, mangos and frangipani.

When it comes to food at Talaramba Reef you can relax and let the in-house chefs do the work. You can enjoy a breakfast of cereal, toast, local jams and marmalades, eggs, fresh fruit, freshly squeezed juice, tea and coffee. For lunch and dinner you can sample some of Sri Lanka's finest homemade cooking by selecting from the house menu and choosing what time you want to eat. There is a large variety on offer in including everything from local specialities and fresh grilled lobster and fish to Western dishes. The staff will shop, prepare and serve your meals, and you pay the cost. There are also some great dining options nearby if you fancy a change of scene.

There are plenty of things to do - both in the vicinity of the villas and nearby. You can enjoy a spot of boules at the Talaramba Reef petanque court, a game of croquet on the lawn or go for a cycle ride with four bikes available at the house. The surfing in this area is fantastic all year round, game fishing is available nearby - or you could opt for a more relaxing massage from a spa in Mirissa. You could also take a trip to the local tea plantation, the Handunugoda Tea Estate or take a whale watching trip.

Day trips can also be taken to the Turtle Conservation Project in Rekawa beach near Tangalle or to Yala National Park.